Interview Tips: Discussing Salary Expectations
April 16, 2022
Interviews can be incredibly stressful. We often worry about what we will wear, who we will meet, or if we can sell ourselves well enough. There is also the stressful, unavoidable question, “what are your salary expectations?’ Our knowledgeable recruiters share their tips on discussing your salary expectations diplomatically and confidently.
AUDIENCE
When asked about your salary expectations, consider who is asking the question before answering. If a recruiter asks this question, be upfront and honest. A good recruiter will coach you and help you understand the market pay range where your experience falls within that range. A hiring manager may not be as generous. You need to carefully consider your expectations before answering because you can potentially blow the opportunity if you go too high or pigeonhole yourself if you go too low.
RESEARCH
Before interviewing with a hiring manager, prepare yourself by conducting research on market pay. Utilizing sites such as Glassdoor or LinkedIn can give you insights into what your local market is paying for your skills and position. You can estimate your abilities and determine approximately where your salary lands on the scale. This new number approximates what people with your skill set in the same position are making in your local market. Give yourself room to negotiate by choosing a number a little higher than what you are truly aiming for in salary.
TIMING
If you are asked upfront about your salary expectations, don’t be shy to give a little pushback. It’s not unreasonable to let the hiring manager know that you will have a better idea of your salary expectations once you better understand the responsibilities and day-to-day tasks that the job will require. Ask if you can revisit the question towards the end of the interview.
FLEXIBILITY
Giving an exact number can be difficult because you don’t want to pigeonhole yourself into a low salary. Once you share a number or a range, follow up with your flexibility. You can share that if the salary range is too high for the company, you are willing to be flexible with how the compensation is configured. Compensation can come in the form of benefits such as sign-on bonuses, 401k match, equity, stock options, commissions, working from home, and other perks. Be sure to let the hiring manager know you are open to getting creative on how you can reach your all-in number.
REMEMBER YOUR WORTH
We understand that landing a job is essential, but your career fulfillment is equally crucial. Don’t let hiring managers drill you down to a number you feel to be unfair and below market value. Remember your research and point back to the impact you can make at the organization should you be offered and competitive and fair compensation package.
ANALYSTS CAN HELP
Experienced IT recruiters at Analysts can assist you with salary negotiations. These professionals work hard to understand the employment market and know how to negotiate a competitive and fair compensation package. Contact us today to learn more.
